DALTON, Ga. -- Shaw Industries Inc. announced that the acquisition of Shaw Industries by an investor group led by Berkshire Hathaway Inc.is now effective. As a result of the acquisition, shareholders of Shaw Industries (other than the investor group) will receive $19 in cash for each share of common stock which they own at the close of business as of Jan 8, 2001.

Shares of Shaw Industries will cease trading on the New York Stock Exchange at the close of business Jan. 8. Beginning on or about Jan. 9, 2001, record holders of Shaw Industries common stock, will be provided with letters of transmittal for delivery of their stock certificates to the exchange agent in order to receive the merger consideration.